Sam Mendes says he won't direct the next Bond

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With the excellent Skyfall, and the less well received Spectre, under his belt, Sam Mendes has taken himself out of the running for the directorial role of the next James Bond film.

Speaking at the Hay Festival of Literature in Wales, via THR, Mendes revealed that he won’t be back for Bond 25. “It was an incredible adventure, I loved every second of it. But I think it’s time for somebody else,” he said.

Mendes isn’t the only one who won’t be making a return, or so it seems. Daniel Craig hasn’t committed to the role, and talks are reportedly underway with Jamie Bell and Tom Hiddleston to replace him. Mendes was keen to point out that no matter who the internet backs, there’s only one person, Barbara Broccoli, with the power to choose the next Bond actor.

“It’s not a democracy … Barbara Broccoli decides who is going to be the next Bond, end of story. I can guarantee whatever happens with it, it will not be what you expect. That’s what she’s been brilliant at, and that’s how it’ll survive…it’s not a public vote, and I think we’re in an age where everything is deemed voteable on. Some things just aren’t and it’s better that way.”